TONY Smith hailed Ben Westwood as one of Super League’s best following Wolves’ 28-6 defeat to Castleford on Monday.

It was another day of disappointment at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, as a second half collapse allowed Cas to romp to victory.

But head of coaching and rugby Smith still took some positives from the game, one of them being his energetic back-rower.

Smith praised Westwood’s workrate and desire, qualities that were even more impressive to the Australian considering Wolves were playing their second game in four days.

Westwood has hit the ground running since returning from a five-game suspension and Smith is looking for some of his teammates to reach the same high standards.

He said: “We love to turn up on nice, beautiful days and watch rugby league but when these people have put their bodies through what they do for two games in quick succession, it's difficult.

“You've got to admire people like Ben Westwood. He's incredible. What a Trojan.

“He's been amazing since he's come back from suspension, one of the best players running around at the moment by a long way.

“I've got to tip my hat to him, he's just a workhorse and a quality workhorse as well. He was a real standout for us.

“There were a few other people who added some spark.

“Bridge probably played his best game since I've been here and a few others put their hands up today but we need a few more if we're going to get consistent results.”

Smith also had a few words of praise for Kevin Penny, who was only called up to the squad to face Cas on Sunday after Vinnie Anderson was ruled out through injury.

He said: “I thought he did pretty well.

“He did come in at really late notice and we had to reshuffle, so I thought he did well.

“It was good for him.”